Here is today's summary of economic development news, a free service of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama, representing Alabama's private sector investment in economic development. If you enjoy NewsFlash, thank an
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BIRMINGHAM, Alabama -
Z Modular, a division of Chicago-based Zekelman Industries, plans to open a 106,000-square-foot advanced production facility in Birmingham's Valley East Industrial Park that will eventually have 100 employees, according to the
Birmingham Business Alliance (BBA).

At the Alabama facility, Z Modular will produce modular units that will be shipped across the U.S. to modular construction projects. Its "plug and play" modules are suitable for uses including health care facilities, data centers, schools, hotels, and commercial offices.

Derek Henderson, vice president of operations for Z Modular, said the company chose Birmingham because of its location in the Southeast and the metro area's pro-business attitude.

MONTGOMERY, AL (WSFA) -Gov. Kay Ivey announced a more than $1 million investment into Alabama's economy, infrastructure and workforce, along with the Delta Regional Authority.

The announcement came Tuesday as in total, an estimated $7.1 million in new investments is expected to result from public and private partnerships.

"The Delta Regional Authority is an essential partner to Alabama in helping us meet the needs of the most rural parts of our state," Gov. Kay Ivey, DRA states co-chair, said. "By investing more than $1 million in our state, DRA is helping rural communities strengthen their infrastructure, improve economic opportunities, and increase access to important cultural enhancements."

Ivey cut the ribbon at the Auburn Daycare Center-Moton to recognize a new First-Class Pre-K classroom. Eighteen children are enrolled in this Alabama First Class Pre-K class, which is located in the Auburn Housing Authority Complex.

First Class Pre-K is part of the Office of School Readiness within the Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education. The program has received the highest quality rating from the National Institute for Early Education Research for the past 11 years, according to the state's website.

Alabama's economy is more diverse than ever, thanks to major new developments in industries ranging from agriculture to aerospace and everything in between, according to
Business Alabama.

The publication's new
2018 Economic Development Guide provides an in-depth examination of the important trends and developments that are reshaping the economic landscape of Alabama.

The 96-page guide takes a comprehensive look at significant developments in each of Alabama's geographic regions, explores what's taking place in the state's key industrial sectors, and assesses changes in incentives, workforce development and other important topics.

6th Annual Global Supply Chain & Logistics Summit to be held in Birmingham

The annual Alabama Global Supply Chain & Logistics Summit will take place on Wednesday, October 18th at the Hyatt Regency - Wynfrey Hotel in Birmingham.

The Summit, sponsored by Bank of America, will be an opportunity to engage with industry leaders from companies both large and small as they share how they implemented supply chain tactics to fit their business needs. Other discussions will include staying ahead of the curve using the latest technology and innovation. Economic developers are encouraged to attend. (The cost of the Summit is $85 per person, and includes breakfast, lunch and seminar materials. To register, view a full agenda and pay for the Summit online, please
click here.)

Among the Summit speakers and panelists will be Vic Modic of Amerex Corporation and Mike Rowland of O'Neal Steel Industries. Tripp Collins, COO of Back Forty Beer Company in Gadsden will give the lunchtime address, describing the history of Back Forty Beer Company and the steps the company has taken to break into the export market in the face of changes in the craft beer industry.

"Supply chain efficiency and innovation continue to be relevant topics for our companies," according to Alabama Secretary of Commerce Greg Canfield. "Businesses have the opportunity here to learn how their peers have put in place supply chain strategies that have led to success both locally and internationally."

For more information on the Summit, contact Beau Lore at the Alabama Department of Commerce, by email at
beau.lore@commerce.alabama.gov or by phone at 334-242-0450.